My Best (Easy!) Tip for Growing a Lush, Organic Garden
One of my neighbors had the most gorgeous garden. Everything was healthy and lush, big and strong. I figured she was dousing everything in Miracle-Gro. Sometimes as an organic gardener, you have to expect disappointment, since your growing challenges are simply bigger when you don’t use conventional fertilizer and pesticides.
One day I was commenting to her about how beautiful it was, and she laughed. “You know what it is?” she asked. “One of the people I clean houses for has a big barn and a bunch of bats live in there. They let me go gather their poop!” We had a good laugh and she gave me some. “A little goes a long way!” she said.
I tend to believe if a little is good, then a lot is better, but my neighbor is right! Use just a little bit! If you use too much your plants will get stunted and turn yellow. If you use just enough, they will be a vibrant rich green–and strong!
How to Use Bat Guano
Unfortunately that neighbor moved away, but lucky for me, you can also buy bat guano at the store. The brand I use is Dr. Earth. You can find it at your local nursery or here. Paid Link, As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
To use with new plantings add ¼ cup to every 10 square feet of soil. Be sure to mix in well. For established plants, use it as a tea. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of guano into your watering can. Stir well. (Using warm water helps). When water is cool, use it to water your plants. You will be glad you did!
What are your favorite organic fertilizers?
For other tips on starting a garden, check out Gardening in Small Spaces and 10 Essential Things to Do Before You Plan Your Garden. You can also see many more ideas on my Pinterest Page and Instagram.
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